My dad scowls at me from behind his massive oak desk. He isn’t enjoying the extra attention I’ve been giving him. I smile brightly. “Yes, it is, because I want to spend time with you.” I’ve forced him into having breakfast with me every day this week, and the majority of our workdays have been spent together. This isn’t the most efficient arrangement for work, but it makes me feel better. He sighs loudly. “You’re exasperating. If you want to spend time with me, why don’t we do somethin’ this weekend?” “We can do something this weekend too, if you’d like?” “That’s not what I meant. I need to get some work done. I’m no toddler, you know. And I’ve got Oliver here if something happens—he’s like Lassie.” I laugh out loud for the first time in days. “I’m glad I don’t have to worry about you falling down any wells.” Oliver wiggles happily at my feet when I bend to pet him.
